Are you ready to learn more about the stars? Last time, we talked about constellations, which are groups of stars that form patterns in the sky. These patterns have cool names like Draco, Hercules, and Pegasus. Astronomers use constellations to help find other objects in the night sky because a big shape made of many stars is easier to spot than a single star.
Have you ever wondered if you can see all constellations from anywhere on Earth? The answer is no! The constellations you can see depend on where you are on Earth and the time of year.
If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, above the Equator, you’ll see different constellations than someone living in the Southern Hemisphere, below the Equator. For example, Ursa Major, also known as the “Great Bear,” is visible in the Northern Hemisphere. Meanwhile, Crux, or the “Southern Cross,” is easy to see in the Southern Hemisphere.
Why is this? It’s because Earth is round and spins on a tilted axis. This tilt means that certain parts of the world have a better view of certain constellations. People at the North Pole can only see constellations north of the Equator. They can’t see the ones below because the Earth blocks their view. However, if you live near the Equator, you’re lucky! You can see all the constellations throughout the year.
The constellations you can see also change with the seasons. Let’s imagine looking at Earth from space. One side of Earth is dark because it’s nighttime there, and people on that side can see the stars and constellations. As Earth spins, different parts face away from the Sun, giving them a great view of the stars during that season.
For example, if it’s winter in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s summer in the Southern Hemisphere. As Earth moves around the Sun, the seasons change, and so do the constellations visible at night. A few months later, you’ll see different stars in the sky. As Earth continues its journey around the Sun, the seasons change again, and new constellations come into view.
The big question is, how do constellations appear to move across the night sky? Their movement is actually due to Earth’s motion. Depending on where you are and when you’re looking, different constellations will come into view.
So, what constellations can you see where you live right now? To find out, grab some friends, maybe a cup of hot chocolate, and head outside when it’s dark for some star gazing. Enjoy the wonders of the night sky!
Create Your Own Constellation: Use a piece of black construction paper and some white chalk or stickers to create your own constellation. Think about the shapes you see in the sky or use your imagination to come up with a new pattern. Once you’ve created your constellation, give it a name and share the story behind it with your family or friends. This activity helps you understand how constellations are formed and named.
Starry Night Observation: On a clear night, go outside with an adult and try to spot some constellations. Use a simple star map or a constellation app to help you identify them. Notice how the constellations change if you look at the sky at different times of the night or during different seasons. Keep a journal of the constellations you see and how they change over time. This will help you understand how Earth’s movement affects what we see in the sky.
Constellation Story Time: Research a constellation that you can see from your location. Learn about the myths or stories behind it. Then, create your own story or play based on that constellation. Share your story with your class or family. This activity encourages you to explore the cultural significance of constellations and how they have been used in storytelling throughout history.
